Speculation is running wild online: Has SiriusXM pulled the plug on The Howard Stern Show? Is the self-proclaimed “King of All Media” walking away from his decades-long radio reign? Here’s what we know—and what’s still a mystery.

The Origins of the Buzz

Rumors exploded after reports claimed Stern’s massive SiriusXM contract was nearing its end and he had no intention of renewing. An Aug. 5 story in The U.S. Sun, citing unnamed sources, suggested Stern would “likely cut some sort of deal” to let Sirius keep his catalog while he walked away from the mic. With no official statement from Stern or SiriusXM, the lack of clarity has fueled feverish speculation.

Who Is Howard Stern?

At 71, Stern remains one of the most influential—and controversial—voices in American radio. Starting in the 1980s, he built his legend on shock-jock antics, no-holds-barred interviews, and ratings dominance, especially during his 20-year run on New York City’s WXRK. His rivalry with John DeBella in Philadelphia radio became the stuff of industry legend.

In 2006, Stern made the high-profile jump to Sirius satellite radio, signing a $500 million deal that cemented his status as one of the highest-paid entertainers on Earth. Subsequent contract renewals in 2010 and 2020—when he inked a reported $120 million-per-year, five-year agreement—only solidified his grip on the top.

Is the Show Really Ending?

As of August 7, 2025, there’s no official confirmation that The Howard Stern Show is ending. SiriusXM has not announced any cancellation, and Stern himself has stayed silent on the matter. Still, with his current contract expiring in the fall, the clock is ticking—and every day without a renewal fuels more rumors.

Listener Numbers: Rise or Decline?

When Stern first joined Sirius in 2006, his subscriber base was estimated in the millions. By 2020, The Hollywood Reporter pegged his audience at about 2.7 million. However, some outlets now claim the number has plummeted to as low as 125,000—statistics that, if accurate, could explain why an exit might be on the table.

The Money Machine

With an estimated net worth of $650 million, Stern has long been the financial crown jewel of SiriusXM. Reports suggest he earns roughly $333,333 per show. That kind of money makes him both indispensable and, perhaps, a target for cost-cutting as the media landscape shifts.

The Legacy Question

Stern’s influence reaches far beyond radio. From bestselling books to TV appearances—and even a New Jersey rest stop briefly named in his honor—he’s a pop culture icon whose career has redefined broadcast boundaries. If The Howard Stern Show ends, it won’t just be the loss of a program; it’ll mark the close of an era.

What Happens Next?

SiriusXM insiders insist they’ll make an offer to keep Stern, but whether he accepts remains uncertain. Could he move to a new platform? Retire entirely? Or reinvent himself yet again? Fans and critics alike are bracing for a bombshell announcement that could drop any day.

Until Stern or SiriusXM speaks, the future of The Howard Stern Show hangs in limbo. One thing is certain: if he does step away, the shockwaves will be felt across the entire media industry.